About this Unit
USCG Point Batan (WPB-82340) was an 82-foot Point-class cutter commissioned by the United States Coast Guard in 1967. Designed for law enforcement, search and rescue, and patrol duties, Point Batan served primarily along the U.S. East Coast. The cutter was known for its robust performance and reliability, participating in numerous rescue operations and maritime law enforcement missions during its years of active service. After decades of service, Point Batan was eventually decommissioned as newer vessels replaced the aging Point-class cutters in the Coast Guard fleet.
Historical Facts
•
Commissioning and Class: USCGC Point Batan (WPB-82340) was a Point-class cutter, commissioned into the United States Coast Guard in 1967 as part of a series of 82-foot patrol boats designed for law enforcement and search and rescue missions.
•
Vietnam Service: Point Batan was deployed to Vietnam under Operation Market Time, where she played a significant role in interdicting North Vietnamese supply lines and providing coastal surveillance.
•
Combat Modifications: For Vietnam service, Point Batan and her sister ships received several modifications, including additional armament (a .50 cal machine gun/81mm mortar combination), extra communications gear, and improved living quarters.
•
Survived Hostile Engagements: During her Vietnam deployment, Point Batan participated in multiple firefights and interdiction operations, surviving several hostile encounters with enemy forces.
•
Crew Composition: The vessel typically operated with a crew of 8, but during Vietnam deployments, the crew was increased to 13 to accommodate the higher operational tempo and additional equipment.
•
Namesake: The cutter was named after Bataan Point in the Philippines, commemorating the World War II valor of US and Filipino troops during the Bataan campaign.
•
Transfer to Republic of Vietnam: In 1970, Point Batan was transferred to the Republic of Vietnam Navy as part of the Vietnamization policy, serving under the name HQ-705.
•
Legacy: The Point-class cutters, including Point Batan, are remembered for their robust design, reliability, and adaptability to combat conditions, making them a staple of Coast Guard history.
•
Decorations: Point Batan and her crew earned several commendations for their service, including awards for valor and meritorious unit commendations during their Vietnam tenure.
•
Technological Features: The cutter featured innovative design aspects for her time, such as air-conditioned crew quarters, watertight compartments, and engines that could be controlled from the bridge, enhancing operational effectiveness and crew comfort.
